Test Reviews

There’s no doubt that the Minox BV 8×25 is an accomplished little compact binocular. It does a lot of things very well, but I can’t shake the feeling that it should deliver a little more “punch” in terms of overall image quality.

While it is certainly very compact, and feels extremely robust, the single hinge design means it can’t fold down like dual hinge compacts do — and that makes it a lot less pocketable. For me that diminishes its usefulness as a carry-anywhere binocular, which is the only reason I’d choose a compact. On the flip side the single hinge design is less “fiddly” in use, means your binoculars are always ready, and makes them feel much more like “real” binoculars in the hand.

As I do with all my reviews, to get an objective opinion, I compared the view through these with my benchmark compact binoculars, that have a configuration of 10x26.

Image Quality

The image produced was as clear and sharp as my benchmark, contrast was also about the same, which means that they are above average and as good as or better than any in their price range. The colour reproduction for a compact was good and the amount of colour fringing (chromatic aberration) around the edges of a dark object when viewed in front of a light background was extremely minimal, but no more than other binoculars in this class and only noticeable if you are really searching for it.

Overall Minox have once again produced an excellent trail camera that definitely improves upon their already excellent previous models.

It is tough, waterproof and the batter life is excellent and I love the ability to be able to send any captured images to your phone or e-mail address all of which mean that you can leave it out on location over very long periods of time with complete confidence.

The improvement in the video quality along with the fact that it now also records sound is excellent as this was something that I mentioned as being a shortfall on the DTC 600.

So in my opinion if you are looking for a tough, high quality trail camera, the Minox DTC 1000 is up there with the very best.

We received a pair of Minox BN 7x50 DC Binoculars from our friends at Pelagic Outfitters to play with. Like most serious fishermen and hunters, we here at BDO know that optics are not the place to "cheap out".

As soon as you take them out of the box, you can tell this is a quality pair of binoculars. Comfortable ergonomics, a rubberized coating and an overall solid feel gave me a great initial impression.

Immediately after unpacking, we all went outside for a little test drive. Right away we were impressed with its light gathering ability. The image was exceptionally bright and razor sharp.

I'm one of those people that have trouble with cheaper “binos”. I can never seem to align the images correctly and I quickly get a headache and stop using them. These “binos” didn't suffer from that issue. They adjusted easily, came into perfect focus and were comfortable for extended periods of time.